Best Employment & Labor Lawyers in Buffalo

About Employment & Labor Law in Buffalo, United States

The employment and labor law in Buffalo, United States covers a range of topics from employee rights, their safety and workers' compensation to employment discrimination and sexual harassment issues. The aim of these laws is to maintain a fair and just workplace environment by regulating the relationship between employers, employees and labor unions, protecting workers' rights, and addressing disputes arising from violations of these rights.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need to engage a lawyer for several reasons in relation to employment and labor issues:

• To protect your rights and interests if you believe you've been unfairly terminated.
• If you suspect you have been a victim of discrimination or sexual harassment at your workplace.
• To help understand and navigate complex employment contracts and agreements.
• For legal assistance in filing or negotiating a workers' compensation claim, or if your claim has been denied.

Local Laws Overview

The local employment and labor laws in Buffalo, particularly in New York State, provide added protections for employees that go beyond the federal laws. These include among others:

• Enhanced anti-discrimination statutes
• Minimum wage laws that are higher than the federal minimum wage
• Policies concerning sick leaves and break times, including paid family leave
• Stringent rules concerning wage theft and fair pay

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have a claim for wrongful termination?

Claiming wrongful termination in New York, which is an "at-will" employment state, can be complex. It depends on whether the terms of your employment contract were violated, or if you were discriminated against based on race, sex, age, religion, etc. A lawyer can help evaluate your situation.

What are my rights regarding workplace discrimination?

Both federal and New York State laws protect employees against discrimination based on color, race, sex, nationality, religion, age, disability status and more. If you've experienced discrimination, you can file a complaint with relevant authorities or pursue legal action.

What is the minimum wage in Buffalo, NY?

As of 2022, the minimum wage in Buffalo is $13.20 per hour for businesses with 10 or fewer employees and $15.00 for those with 11 or more employees.

What should I do if my employer is not paying me overtime?

Under New York law, unless you are exempt, you must be paid 1.5 times your regular pay rate for any hours worked over 40 in a week. If your employer is not respecting this, you can file a wage claim or lawsuit.

Do I qualify for workers' compensation benefits?

Most employees in New York who are injured on the job have the right to workers' compensation benefits. There can be exceptions for independent contractors, certain agricultural and domestic workers, and others. It's wise to consult a lawyer for advice pertinent to your situation.

Additional Resources

Beyond legal representation, there are several resources in Buffalo for individuals requiring advice or support on employment and labor matters:

• New York State Department of Labor: Provides information about various labor laws, rights, wages, benefits, and more.
• The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): Handles complaints related to workplace discrimination.
• Buffalo Workers' Compensation Lawyers: Specialize in aiding workers injured on the job or those who have contracted an occupational disease.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with an employment and labor issue in Buffalo, start by contacting a local attorney who specializes in this area of law. They can provide legal advice tailored to your situation, help you understand your rights and options, and guide you through any required legal processes. You may also wish to consult the resources listed above.